A healthy smile starts with clean teeth. For best results, the American Dental Association (ADA) recommends that you brush your teeth twice a day. Choosing the right toothbrush is important—a soft bristle brush is best. It’s also a good idea to replace your toothbrush every three to four months, or when the bristles show signs of wear. Sedki Dentistry in Commerce, MI can help you stay on track with your oral health.
These are all essential tips, but how you brush your teeth is just as important.
Here are the basic guidelines to brushing your teeth, compiled from the ADA and American Dental Hygienists Association (ADHA):
- Place your toothbrush at a slight angle (the ADHA suggests a 45° angle). Make sure the toothbrush is touching the gum line and the tooth surface. Gently move the brush back and forth in a short rolling motion. Your toothbrush might cover more than one tooth at a time. Just be sure you’re cleaning all surface areas before you move onto the next set of teeth. Repeat this until you have brushed the outer surface area of every tooth.
- Now move to the inner side of your teeth. Follow the same process. Tilt your toothbrush at an approximate 45° angle, and gently move the brush back and forth in that rolling motion. Be sure to get both the gum line and tooth surfaces.
- Now move to the front teeth. These are a bit harder to reach along the backside. If it feels comfortable, tilt the brush at a vertical angle so you can reach to the gum line and along the back of each tooth. Using the front half of the toothbrush to gently clean the backside of the teeth in an up and down motion.
- Finally, move to the biting surface of your teeth. Gently scrub back and forth along the top side of each tooth.
- Don’t forget your tongue.It’s a great place for bacteria to hang out and cause bad breath. Gently brush your tongue from back to front with the bristles.
- Be sure to get in between your teeth where food and bacteria easily hide using floss or a dental pick.
- Many people prefer to rinse with antibacterial mouthwash.
Brushing your teeth properly should take at least two minutes. If it’s easier, you can use an electronic toothbrush. Just be cautious not to miss any tooth surface or along the gum line. Resist the urge to press hard or scrub your teeth or gums harshly. This may lead to irritation and sensitivity in your gums and teeth.
If you’re still not sure you’re brushing correctly, ask Dr. Sedki at Sedki Dentistry in Commerce, MI at your next visit. We’re always happy to help keep your smile healthy!